Proposed single storey extension.

The application was approved in accordance with the case officer’s recommendation.

The Development Manager gave a presentation on the application and updates / additional representations received following the publication of the agenda were provided in the update sheet.

In accordance with paragraph 4.8.2.2 of the Council’s Constitution, Councillor PA Andrews, one of the local ward members, addressed the Committee and stated that all three local ward members were happy to support the application.

RESOLVED

That planning permission be granted subject to the following conditions:

1.         A01 Time limit for commencement (full permission)

2.         B01 Development in accordance with the approved plans

3.         C02 Matching external materials (extension)

Reasons for Approval

1.         The proposed extension is required to provide additional floor space for the existing Hereford Football Association headquarters as such it is regarded as a sports related development. Having regard to Herefordshire Unitary Development Plan Policies S8 and RST1 and policies contained within the National Planning Policy Framework. It is considered that the proposal represents an important contribution to the provision of local and community sports facilities.

It is considered that the proposed extension will appear in keeping with the character and appearance of the existing building and surrounding area in terms of its siting, scale, mass, height, detailed design and materials. In this respect the proposal will not conflict with the requirements of Hereford Unitary Development Plan Policies S1, S2, DR1 and DR2 together with the sustainability and good design policies and objectives contained in the Introduction and Section 7 of the National Planning Policy Framework.

The existing building is located within the Widemarsh Common Conservation Area, where it is an inconspicuous element in the context of the distinctive character of the conservation area. It is considered that the extension and parking area will not significantly increase the prominence of the building and will not harm the character of the conservation area. Accordingly it is considered that the proposal does not conflict with Herefordshire Unitary Development Plan Policies S7 and HBA 6 or Section 12 of the National Planning Policy Framework

It is considered that the proposal will not unduly impact on the amenity of the occupiers of nearby residential or other properties and will not conflict with Herefordshire Unitary Development Plan Policy DR2 or the Core planning principles contained in the National Planning Policy Framework.

The application site is situated within Flood Zone 3. Having regard to the applicant's flood risk assessment and the Environment Agency’s response that the proposal is a minor extension and they have no formal comment it is considered the proposal is acceptable and will not conflict with Hereford Unitary Development Plan Policy DR7 or Section 10 of the National Planning Policy Framework.

Informatives

1.         The Local Planning Authority has acted positively and proactively in determining this application by assessing the proposal against planning policy and any other material considerations. Negotiations in respect of matters of concern with the application (as originally submitted) have resulted in amendments to the proposal.  As a result, the Local Planning Authority has been able to grant planning permission for an acceptable proposal, in accordance with the presumption in favour of sustainable development, as set out within the National Planning Policy Framework.

2.         The applicant’s attention is drawn to the Environment Agency’s advice on flood risk a copy of which is attached.